heating

​All of the roof structures in Cortelha have been insulated. The walls are made of xisto, and have either been rendered with a cement and lime mortar, or pointed internally. All the holes where draughts could come in have been filled in. The main heating for the building comes from the wood burning 'salamander' in the kitchen, which also serves as the main place to cook in the winter. Hot air rises to the upper floor, and can heat both rooms, if the internal partition door is kept open. The verandah may need an alternative heat source, but it will probably be heated enough by the occasional use of the gas cooker which can remain in there. We have confidence that we can easily get warm and comfortable in the main quinta building, even during a strong mountain winter gale, or temperatures of minus twelve which are possible. As the wind can be very strong, we have a small portable gas heater for the odd occasion that fires will not light, or are not convenient, and to ensure we have a supply of heat in an emergency. All the wood needed comes from the quinta, and the mountain around, and is easily collected from the ground.